NSW SUBURBAN RUGBY UNION OPERATIONS MANUAL SEASON 2013 CONTACT NUMBERS & CALENDAR COMPETITION PLAYING RULES MATCH DAY OPERATIONS & ARU POLICIES

Transcription

1 CONTACT NUMBERS & CALENDAR NSW SUBURBAN RUGBY UNION OPERATIONS MANUAL COMPETITION PLAYING RULES MATCH DAY OPERATIONS & ARU POLICIES SEASON 2013 JUDICIARY PROCEDURES This manual is available on-line at NSWSRU CONSTITUTION

2 SECTION 1: CONTACT NUMBERS & CALENDAR CONTENTS Page Number 1.1 NSW Suburban Rugby Union Board NSW Suburban Rugby Union Office Staff NSW Suburban Rugby Union Club Contacts NSW Suburban Rugby Union Sponsors NSW Suburban Rugby Union Calendar Rugby Course Calendar

3 1.1 The NSWSRU Board President Michael Kennedy (Mosman) Chairman Paul Timmins (Old Ignatians) Treasurer Danny Hinton (Hills) Division One Rep. Jack Shute (Knox) Division Two Rep. John Morrison (UNSW) Division Three Rep. Chris Moloney (Blue Mountains) Division Five/Six Rep. Graham Short (Terrey Hills) General Committee Rohan Aalders (Sydney Harlequins) General Committee John Slender (Briars) General Committee Thomas Tudehope (Redfield Old Boys) Executive Director Mark Green The NSWSRU Office Staff Executive Director - Mark Green - mark@rugby.net.au Competition Manager - Tim Richards - tim@rugby.net.au Telephone: Fax: Suburban Info line (wet weather & results) Online: - Registered Office - Sydney Football Stadium Driver Ave Moore Park Postal Address - Locked Bag 1222 Paddington NSW 2021 If a Club secretary has any queries at any time regarding administration directions or details, then he should contact the Union office. Please do not hesitate to call the office staff at any time. 2

4 1.3 Club Contact Numbers CLUB CLUB CONTACT CONTACT NUMBER Division One Balmain David Pinson Beecroft Dylan Schofield Campbelltown Col Packer Colleagues Frank Coorey Drummoyne Gavan Hassett Hunters Hill Renny Isles Knox Old Boys Nick Hamley Mosman Michael Flude Old Ignatians Chris Galvin St Patricks Greg Dening Division Two Barker Old Boys Jared McMahon Brothers Ian Gibson Forest David Dickerson Kings Old Boys Josh Moule Lindfield Ben Elston Newport Steve Hansen Oatley Ronnie Mackay Petersham Alex Major St Ives Joy Johnson UNSW John Sciberras Division Three Blacktown Rick Morris Blue Mountains Jeff Apps Briars Damien Johnson Epping Tristan Newton-McGee Hawkesbury Valley Trevor Manuel Hills Craig Brinnand Hornsby Murray Keir St George Deb Coulthard UWS Hawkesbury John Mullinger Waverley Rob Willoughby

5 Divisions Five & Six Alexandria Dukes Phillip Tovey Burraneer Shane Ewings Canterbury Harry Maniatis Chatswood Craig Nisbett Clovelly David Wilson Colleagues Convicts David Whittaker Dundas Valley Luke Pursey Fairvale-Lansvale John Zanetta International College of Management Rowan Courtney-O Connor Killara-West Pymble Matt McCroarey Lane Cove James Guilfoyle Maccabi Steve Cohen Macquarie University Cameron Haddad Manly Savers Derek Daly Merrylands Peter Macklin Redfield Old Boys Thomas Tudehope Rockdale Cliff (Dez) Tau Roseville Al Doecke Rouse Hill Russell Smith Sydney Harlequins Rohan Aalders Sydney Irish Val Baynes Sydney Grammar Old Boys Raphael Shamavonian Terrey Hills Peter Watson

6 1.4 NSWSRU SPONSORS Interfuse provide a wide range of services including technology consultancy, marketing consultancy, web development, software engineering, networking and graphic design. Contact Chris Clark at Interfuse on or by chris@interfuse.com.au IST plans and packages customised sporting tours to major local and international sporting events. The team at IST are also available to assist with any queries in relation to the planning and running of a proposed tour including fundraising and destinations. IST are the rugby tour specialists. Contact Phillip on For a competitive price on all your clubs on and off field teamwear, give Scott Philipson a call on ISC provides preferential pricing and service to all Suburban Rugby Clubs and there is no deposit required and no set-up costs. Manufacturers of the Leuko range of sports medicine products designed to support and protect you before, during and after exercise, thereby minimising injury. Great value Leuko products can be purchased through the Union office. ( ) Price lists are available on-line at 5

7 Coca-Cola is the preferred supplier of beverages to the NSWSRU. Purchases made directly through Coca-Cola will receive a rebate of up to $1/case and points towards free coca-cola merchandise. To place an order phone The Australian Rugby Review, Australia's leading Rugby magazine is a proud sponsor of Suburban Rugby. To subscribe, call John Blondin Gilbert Footballs are the official supplier of footballs to the NSWSRU. For the best deal on footballs and football accessories in Sydney contact the Union office or just drop in. Eftpos facilities are available. Price lists are available on-line at Icons of Sport helps fundraising for clubs by offering wholesale priced sporting memorabilia and collectibles for dinners, auctions, gala days, trivia nights, sponsors days, etc. Please contact Michael Zann: or by michael@iconsofsport.com.au 6

8 NSWSRU CALENDAR DATE DAY EVENT VENUE TIME 4 Mar Mon Division One Meeting Union Office 6:30pm 5 Mar Tue Division Two/Three Meeting Union Office 6:30pm 6 Mar Wed Division Five/Six Meeting Union Office 6:30pm 9 Mar Sat Subbies Coach the Coach session Wills Ground, Earlwood 9.00am 11 Mar Mon Ref Coach Seminar Div 1, 2 & 3 Union Office 6:30pm 11 Mar Mon Subbies Leuko Strapping Course Union Office 6:00pm 18 Mar Mon Gradings Night Union Office 7:00pm 6 Apr Sat Suburban Round 1 Various 27 Apr Sat Wet Weather Weekend (Div One Only) 6 May Mon Team Registration Fees due ($440 per senior team; $385 per colts team) 18 May Sat Rep Match: NSWSRU vs NSW Country ANZ Stadium, Homebush 5.00pm 8 Jun Sat Bye All Divisions 8 June Sat Rep Match: NSWSRU vs QLD Subbies Suncorp Stadium, Bris 4.50pm 1 Jul Mon Division Two/Three Meeting Union Office 6:30pm 2 Jul Tue Division Five/Six Meeting Union Office 6:30pm 8 Jul Mon Division One Meeting Union Office 6:30pm 6 Jul Sat Wet Weather Weekend - All Divisions 10 Aug Sat Wet Weather Weekend Div 1, 2 & 3 31 Aug Sat Divisions Two & Three Finals begin TBA 7 Sep Sat Division One Finals begin TBA 14 Sep Sat Division Two & Three Grand Finals 21 Sep Sat Division One Grand Finals T G Millner Field 11 Oct Fri Suburban Annual Presentation Night The Establishment 7:00pm 25 Nov Mon NSW Suburban Rugby Union AGM Union Office 7:00pm 7

9 Course Calendar Register at DAY DATE VENUE TIME FOUNDATION COURSES $75 Sun 10 Mar Trinity Grammar, Summer Hill 8.30am Mon/Mon 11, 18 Mar Forshaw Rugby Park, Sylvania Waters 6.00pm Wed/Wed 13, 20 Mar Granville Oval, Parramatta 6.00pm Sun 17 Mar Oakhill College 8.30am Wed/Wed 3, 10 Apr Mosman RFC 6.00pm Sun 7 Apr Waverley College 8.00am Sun 7 Apr Barker College 8.00am Sun 28 Apr Hurlstone Agricultural College 8.00am Sun 2 Jun Sydney Grammar School, Rushcutters Bay 8.00am TOUCH JUDGE COURSES $30 Wed 6 Mar Parramatta RFC 6.30pm Mon 11 Mar Newport RFC 6.30pm Mon 25 Mar Sylvania 6.30pm Wed 3 Apr Strathfield 6.30pm Sun 7 Apr Waverley College 9.00am Mon 8 Apr St Ives RFC 6.00pm Mon 6 May Manly 6.30pm Sun 2 June SFS, Moore Park 8.00am SMARTRUGBY COURSES FREE Sat 9 Mar Wills Ground, Earlwood 12.00pm Sun 10 Mar Trinity Grammar, Summer Hill 9.30am Wed 13 Mar Parramatta RFC 6.00pm Sun 17 Mar Oakhill College 9.30am Mon 18 Mar Dundas Valley 6.00pm Wed 3 Apr Mosman RFC 6.00pm Sun 7 Apr Waverley College 9.30am Sun 7 Apr Barker College 9.30am Sun 2 Jun Sydney Grammar School, Rushcutters Bay 9.30am COACH LEVEL II $350 Weds x 6 22 May 26 Jun SFS, Moore Park 6.00pm Fr/Sa/Su 11, 12, 13 Oct SFS, Moore Park 8.00am 8

10 SECTION 2: COMPETITION PLAYING RULES Rule Title Page A Meaning of Terms 2 B Promotion, Relegation & New Club Assessment 2 C Laws of Rugby 2 D Code of Conduct 3 E Venue Facilities 3 F Insurance Cover 3 1 Club Affiliation 3 2 Team Registration 3 3 Grading of Teams 3 4 Player Registration 4 5 Contact Between Clubs 4 6 The Competition 4 7 Club Championships 5 8 Prizes 5 9 Forfeits 5 10 Grounds Unfit for Play 6 11 Wash-outs, Postponements and Replays 6 12 Match Timing 7 13 Referees 7 14 Touch Judges 7 15 Coaches 8 16 Ground Marshals 8 17 Uncontested Scrums 8 18 Replacement/Substitution of Players 9 19 Temporary Suspension (Sin Bin) Judiciary Players Sent Off the Field 11 21A Limitations on Right of Appeal Tolerable Level of Established Offences Misconduct of Members, Players, Officials & Spectators Appeals Tribunal Lodging of Protests Citing By Clubs Citing By Union Officials Disqualified, Unqualified or Suspended Players Abandonment of Match Match Results and Team Lists Colts Spectator and Ground Control Playing Uniforms Footballs Representative Players Finals Series Contravention of Playing Rules Alteration of Playing Rules 18 1

11 STATEMENT OF INTENT These rules shall apply to all clubs participating in any competition organised under the auspices of the NSW Suburban Rugby Union, and shall be read in conjunction with the Statement of Objects and Rules of the NSW Suburban Rugby Union, and the Code of Conduct. A. MEANING OF TERMS In these rules, except in so far as the context or subject matter otherwise indicates or requires - A.1 NSWSRU means New South Wales Suburban Rugby Union Inc. A.2 Board means the Board of Directors of the NSWSRU. A.3 The Judiciary is the Judiciary Chairman elected at the NSWSRU Grading Meeting and members appointed by the Board. A.4 Club means a club affiliated with the NSWSRU and participating in the competition. A.5 NSWRU means New South Wales Rugby Union. A.6 Financially indebted means any sum outstanding to NSWSRU which has remained unpaid for thirty days after the date on which such payment was due. A.7 Results Sheets, Affiliation and Registration Forms are those documents provided by the NSWSRU for recording results of matches, affiliation of Clubs, and registration of players. A.8 Misconduct means conduct, action or behaviour that is detrimental to the image of the game of Rugby Union. A.9 Headings are for convenience only and do not form part of these rules or affect their interpretation. B. PROMOTION, RELEGATION & NEW CLUB ASSESSMENT B. PROMOTION, RELEGATION & NEW CLUB ASSESSMENT B.1 At the end of each season, based on the Club Championship points, the club finishing last in Division One will be relegated to Division Two. The winner of the Division Two Club Championship will be promoted to Division One. B.2 At the end of each season based on the Club Championship points the last placed club of Division Two will be relegated to Division Three. The winner of the Division Three Club Championship will be promoted to Division Two. B.3 At the end of the season, and regardless of Club Championship standings, any Division One or Two club that did not field an U21 colts team may, at the discretion of the Board, have to show cause why it should remain in that Division. B.4 At the end of the season, based on the Club Championship points, the last placed club of Division Three will, if required, be relegated to the next lowest Division. B.5 Consideration will be given at the end of the current season to applications for promotion from any of the Division Five clubs. Applications shall be in writing supported by evidence of the club s performance during the previous season, particularly the fielding of a Halligan Cup or Colts team, and include proposals for recruitment, home ground facilities, financial situation, administration strength, club management, and player strength. B.6 Applications will be considered by the Clubs, Competition and Rules Sub- Committee. The findings of that Sub- Committee shall be presented to the Board which, in turn, will present a recommendation to the Grading Meeting for its consideration. B.7 When the union receives an application for affiliation from a new club, the Union shall notify all existing clubs and invite submissions as to the desirability or otherwise of the application. C. LAWS OF RUGBY C.1 Matches in the NSWSRU annual competitions shall be played in accordance with the Laws of Rugby and rulings thereon of the Australian Rugby Union. 2

12 D. CODE OF CONDUCT D.1 A member, player, coach, official or spectator shall not at any time act in a manner detrimental towards the game or spirit of Rugby Union. D.2 All clubs shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that members, players, coaches, officials or spectators do not act in a manner detrimental towards the game or spirit of Rugby Union. D.3 During the course of or after a match under the jurisdiction of the NSWSRU, a member, player, coach, official, spectator and any other person associated with a NSWSRU Club shall not abuse or address a referee or touch judge in insulting terms or act in a provocative manner towards a referee or touch judge. D.4 All clubs must sign and return the Code of Conduct and Competition Participation Agreement prior to round one. E. VENUE FACILITIES E.1 Ground Conditions E.1.1 The ground shall be dressed in accordance with the Laws of Rugby and all four goal post uprights shall be fitted with protective pads. E.1.2 Any objection by either team about the ground or the way in which it is marked out must be made to the referee before the kick off. If teams cannot agree as to the safety of the ground the referee will decide whether the game may begin. If there is any doubt as to the safety of the ground the referee will not allow the game to begin until the ground has been made safe. E metre and halfway lines shall be identified with flags or markers on both sides of the field. E.1.4 Home clubs shall ensure that objects such as cricket pitches or inground watering systems are properly covered for the safety of players. E.1.5 Grounds should have adequate toilet, change room and shower facilities in close proximity to the playing field. E.2 First Aid E.2.1 The home club shall supply the following: 3 (a) a stretcher (preferably a scoop stretcher) for use by trained personnel; (b) a fully equipped first aid kit; (c) ice; (d) a person with at least basic first aid certification, with knowledge of first aid skills and procedures. (e) emergency contacts for nearest hospital, doctor, dentist, etc. (f) emergency vehicle access for ambulance E.2.2 For the purposes of player safety all sideline equipment such as buckets or first aid equipment shall be placed no closer to the sideline than adjacent to the ropes. F. INSURANCE COVER F.1 Clubs should be fully conversant with the cover afforded by the ARU insurance scheme. 1. CLUB AFFILIATION 1.1 Clubs shall apply for affiliation with NSWSRU for the following season, on the prescribed form, accompanied by the appropriate fee, and shall be forwarded to the Executive Director by the date specified by the Board. 2. TEAM REGISTRATION 2.1 Registration of teams for competitions shall be made on the Application for Affiliation Form and will be accompanied by the relevant registration fees and insurance premiums by the closing date determined by the NSWSRU. 3. GRADING OF TEAMS 3.1 The Grading meeting shall be held after the closing date for entries and prior to the commencement of the season. From nominations received from the clubs, the Grading meeting shall determine the clubs to compete in the competitions.

13 4. PLAYER REGISTRATION 4.1 Clubs must register each player participating in the NSWSRU competitions prior to the commencement of the player s first match. 4.2 The NSWSRU registration process is as follows: a) Each player provides to his club proof of identity by way of a current government issued identification document, clearly showing the player s name, date of birth and photo. b) Once ID is established, each player completes the ARU Membership Form, or its approved online equivalent, and the responsible club official properly completes and counter signs the form. c) The club then enters each player s details on-line on the ARU player registration system, My Rugby Admin. 4.3 Clubs are responsible for all players being properly registered. 4.4 Clubs have the right to request player identification from any opposition player. If a player is unable to show proof of identification he must furnish it to the Union Office by 5pm on the next business day. 4.5 Players shall not be registered with more than one club at a time. A club found guilty of playing a player who is currently registered with another club will be liable for loss of competition points, and/or suspension from the competition, and/or a fine. A player found to be in breach of this rule will be liable for suspension or expulsion from the competition. 4.6 Applications for transfer from one NSWSRU club to another, or from another Union, shall be forwarded to the Executive Director, together with a written release from the club and/or Union from which the player wishes to transfer. Players shall not be eligible for transfer if financially indebted to any club, the NSWSRU or any other Union. 4.7 A player, having transferred out of any Suburban Club twice within a season, will not be re-admitted into the Union. 4.8 A player cannot be transferred into a NSWSRU competition within four rounds of 4 the end of the minor premiership, or if the transferring player is a NSWSRU player whose original competition has concluded for the current season. 4.9 A player registered with the NSWSRU within four rounds of the end of the minor premiership shall not be eligible to play in a semi-final, final or grand final Contravention of any of the player registration rules will bring a fine of $100, without right of appeal, and/or possible loss of competition points. 5. CONTACT BETWEEN CLUBS 5.1 The Secretary of each home club must contact the Secretary of his opposing club in the week preceding their fixture to confirm venues, kick off times, changing facilities, post-match functions, and actions to be taken in the case of inclement weather. 6. THE COMPETITION 6.1 A draw will be made setting out the matches, venues and dates of each of the respective competitions and copies will be forwarded to competing clubs by the NSWSRU. Any draw may be varied at the discretion of the Board, and written notice will be given in writing to all affected clubs. 6.2 Each division will be so arranged to include such number of teams in each grade as deemed appropriate by the Board for that division, including byes where necessary. 6.3 Competition points will be awarded for each competition on the basis of: i) four points for a win; ii) iii) two points for a draw; one point for a loss if the losing team is within 7 points or less of the opposition at match end; iv) no points for a loss or bye. v) one point for scoring 4 tries or more (a bonus point will be awarded in the event of a forfeit). 6.4 A forfeit is regarded as a win to the opposing team by the score of twenty-eight points to nil.

14 7. CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS 7.1 In divisions in which there is more than one grade, a championship will be conducted to determine the champion club for that division. 7.2 Points will be allocated by multiplying the total competition points secured by each team: 1st Grade x 22 2nd Grade x 12 3rd Grade x 6 Colts U 21 x 6 U85kg x 6 Cowboy Cup only 4th Grade x 3 5 th Grade x 1 Halligan Cup x 1 Cowboy Cup only 7.3 U 21 Colts club championship points will only be awarded to clubs in Divisions One, Two and Three for their 1 st grade colts team. 7.4 In the event of a tie for a Club Championship between two or more clubs, the following provisions will apply: Firstly, the club with the greater number of points in First Grade will be awarded the Club Championship Secondly, the club with the greater number of points in Second Grade will be awarded the Club Championship Thirdly, the club with the greater number of points in Third Grade will be awarded the Club Championship Fourthly, the club with the greater number of points in Colts will be awarded the Club Championship Fifthly, the club with the greater number of points in Fourth Grade will be awarded the Club Championship Sixthly, the club with the greater number of points in Fifth Grade will be awarded the Club Championship If there is still a tie between clubs, then both clubs will be declared as Club Champions. 7.5 In the Division One Club Championship competition, the Bruce Graham Shield shall be awarded to the club scoring the most points in grades one to five plus Colts In the Division Two Club Championship competition, the Reliance Shield shall be awarded to the club scoring the most club championship points in grades one to four, plus Colts. 7.7 In the Division Three Club Championship competition, the K.W.H. Doc Harris Shield shall be awarded to the club scoring the most club championship points in grades one to four, plus colts. 7.8 In the Division Four Club Championship competition, the F.J Herlihy Shield, shall be awarded to the club scoring the most club championship points in grades one to three. 7.9 In the Division Five Club Championship competition, the David Swan Shield, shall be awarded to the club scoring the most club championship points in grades one to two An inter-divisional Club Championship competition, the Cowboy Cup, shall be awarded to the club scoring the most club championship points within the whole Union. The Cowboy Cup will take into account finals series matches. 8. PRIZES 8.1 The NSWSRU will recognise the winners of the major premiership and Club Championship in each division with an appropriate award. 9. FORFEITS 9.1 If a Club is forced to forfeit a match, it shall be the lowest grade(s) representing that Club, excluding Colts, which shall be forfeited. 9.2 If a club forfeits a grade higher than a grade already played on that day, then at the Board s discretion, that club may be deemed to have forfeited all grades, excluding colts, previously played on that day. However, any point differential greater than 28-0 in favour of the non-forfeiting club will be preserved. 9.3 Clubs that advise the Union and opposition Club that they are forfeiting a grade, with the exception of U19s & Halligan Cup, by 10am on the Friday

15 preceding the match will lose two (2) competition points and half applicable club championship points from each forfeited grade. Clubs that advise the Union and opposition Club after 10am Friday will lose four (4) competition points and full applicable Club Championship points from each grade forfeited, and may be liable for a $100 fine. The opposition team will still receive a forfeit result. 9.4 Any club which forfeits two or more competition matches in a grade (except Halligan Cup) shall be called to appear before, or give a written submission to the Clubs, Competition and Rules Sub- Committee at a time notified by the NSWSRU. The Sub-Committee may recommend to the Board appropriate action be taken in the form of a fine, suspension, or withdrawal from the competition, or additional loss of competition and/or club championship points. 9.5 A minimum of 11 players is needed to constitute a team for NSWSRU competition matches. Any team unable to field 11 players within ten minutes of the official kick-off time, or at any stage during the match, for whatever reason, including temporary suspensions or send-offs, shall forfeit the match without right of appeal. Teams playing against an opposition with less than 15 players are not required to match opposition team numbers. 10. GROUNDS UNFIT FOR PLAY 10.1 If the scheduled venue for a match is likely to be or found to be unfit for play in the week leading up to the match, the home team shall notify the NSWSRU and the visiting club at the earliest opportunity and; Arrange a suitable alternative venue for the match; or If one cannot be found, play the match at the nominated ground of the opposing club; or If that ground is unfit for play, make arrangements with the opposing club to play the match on the Saturday of the next bye weekend unless both clubs agree to play the match on an earlier date. Should either club 6 already have a deferred match scheduled for the next bye weekend or if there are no bye weekends remaining and another match needs to be rescheduled then this match will be played on the Sunday a week hence (i.e. 15 days after it was originally scheduled) Under this rule, should a club have a full round of matches needing to be rescheduled then those matches will take precedence over a single deferred match that may already have been rescheduled If a ground is unfit for play, and the match is changed from the original venue, the next match between the two clubs affected (if applicable) will remain as per the original competition draw Should a dispute arise between the two clubs in relation to these arrangements, the matter shall be referred immediately to the Executive Director who shall decide upon the most appropriate action. 11. WASH-OUTS, POSTPONEMENTS & RE-PLAYS 11.1(a) If weather or conditions not covered by forfeit provisions require a scheduled match or matches to be postponed, the match will be played on the Saturday of the next bye weekend unless both clubs agree to play the match on an earlier date. 11.1(b) Excluding Division 1 and any Divisions scheduled to play less than 18 rounds, in Rds 1 9, if weather or conditions not covered by forfeit provisions require a scheduled match or matches to be postponed, the match can be rescheduled to the Sunday a week hence (i.e. 15 days after it was originally scheduled) if both clubs agree. If no such agreement can be reached the match will not be rescheduled and the next time the two clubs meet the match will earn double the normal points Should either club already have a deferred match scheduled for the next bye weekend (or if there are no bye weekends remaining) and another match needs to be rescheduled then this match will be played on the Sunday a week hence (i.e. 15 days after it was originally scheduled.) Should

16 any Round 18 matches be deferred then these must be played prior to the semi finals Should a dispute arise in relation to this arrangement, the matter shall be referred to the Executive Director who shall decide upon the most appropriate action Notwithstanding Rules 10 and 11, the Executive Director can at his discretion cancel any complete competition round in advance in the event of bad weather. In this instance the round will be declared a washout and no competition points will be awarded to any team in that competition for that round. 12. MATCH TIMING 12.1 The duration of matches and kickoff times shall be: Grade Each Half Kick Off 1st 40 mins 3:15pm 2nd 35 mins 2:00pm Colts 35 mins 12:45pm 3rds 30 mins 11:40am 4ths 25 mins 10.45am Sutherland Cup 25 mins Determined by home team, but no later than 12pm Halligan Cup 25 mins Determined by home team Radford Cup 35 mins Determined by home team 12.2 Any club which is not prepared to commence a match within ten minutes of the official kick-off time shall forfeit the match without right of appeal. The referee shall note such occurrence on the result sheet Any time lost in commencing a match for whatever reason shall be deducted from the allocated time for that match Injury time will be added to the playing time in first grade matches only Kick-off times, except in the event of wet weather, will not be altered less than 10 days prior to the match unless under exceptional circumstances. Any decision to alter these times shall be made by the Executive Director REFEREES 13.1 In the event of the appointed referee not attending the venue for a match within ten minutes of the scheduled kick-off time, a SmartRugby qualified referee may be appointed by mutual agreement between the two clubs The appointed referee shall be substituted at the first available opportunity after the match has commenced If no agreement can be reached, the home club shall appoint a SmartRugby qualified referee and the game shall be played Should, for any reason, a game not proceed under this rule, the match fixture shall be declared a bye and no competition points will be awarded to either club Any club unable to supply a SmartRugby qualified referee when required shall be fined $100 for each offence. 14. TOUCH JUDGES 14.1 Each club must have as registered members the following number of accredited touch judges: Division No. of Touch Judges Div 1 6 Div 2 5 Div 3 4 Div 4 3 Div 5 2 Div Any club in contravention of the above Rule 14.1 after Rd 8 shall be fined $100 per touch judge not registered Each club must have one accredited touch judge available to touch judge for every grade played each day In the event of there being no touch judge appointed by the NSW Rugby Union at the time allocated for a match to start, each club shall provide an accredited touch judge for the match Should there only be one touch judge appointed by the NSWRU it shall be the responsibility of the home club to supply one other accredited touch judge.

17 14.6 The accredited touch judges appointed by a club shall be entitled to report on all aspects of foul play. The club appointed touch judge must report to the referee prior to the start of the match and present his accreditation; he must be distinguishable as a touch judge (i.e. not in club colours), and be equipped with a flag Any club not supplying an accredited touch judge for a grade shall be fined $100 for each offence. 15. COACHES 15.1 Each club must ensure every coach of every team is SmartRugby qualified Each coach must be registered as a coach, following the same registration procedure as described in Rule 4, and entered each week as a coach on the on-line team sheet Any club and/or team in contravention of Rule 15.1 and/or 15.2 after Rd 3 may be liable for a loss of competition points and/or withdrawal from the competition 16. GROUND MARSHALS 16.1 Each club shall provide a Ground Marshal for each fixture. Both Ground Marshals must wear the bibs provided The Ground Marshal from each club shall introduce himself/herself to the other Ground Marshal prior to the start of play of the first match of the day Each Ground Marshal shall be responsible for spectator and crowd control and their instructions and/or directions shall be obeyed at all times. Each Ground Marshal shall also be responsible for keeping the sin bin times for the players of his club The Ground Marshals shall introduce themselves to the referee prior to the commencement of each match and be responsible for rectifying any problems which are brought to their attention by the referee throughout the course of a day The Ground Marshal shall offer each referee complimentary food and beverages at the conclusion of their match The Ground Marshal provided by the home club shall ensure that the visiting club is made aware of the home ground changing, playing, medical, food and drink facilities available, as well as procedures for the post match function Contravention of any of the Ground Marshal rules will bring a fine of $100, without right of appeal, and/or loss of competition points and any other fines or penalties as the Judiciary may see fit. 17. UNCONTESTED SCRUMS 17.1 All teams, with the exception of Halligan Cup, must have five players who can play in the front row to ensure that on the first occasion that a replacement hooker is required, and on the first occasion that a replacement prop forward is required, the team can continue to play safely with contested scrums Should a team not be able to meet this obligation for any reason during a game, then at the point in the match when the front row replacement is required, this team must play with one player fewer than would otherwise be allowed Should a team not have three suitably trained front row players to commence a game with contested scrums, this team must play with one player fewer than would otherwise be allowed If, subsequently, a qualified front rower becomes available (or returns from either blood-bin or temporary suspension) so that scrums can be contested then that player will be allowed onto the field and the team may return to the appropriate complement of players If neither team has suitably trained front row players to start a game with contested scrums, the above arrangements do not apply to the game, even if qualified front rowers subsequently become available Any club which plays uncontested scrums in two or more matches in a particular grade during a season with the exception of the Halligan Cup shall receive a written warning from the union and may be called to appear before, or give a written

18 submission to the Clubs, Competition and Rules Sub-Committee as a matter of urgency at a time notified by the NSWSRU. The Sub-Committee may recommend to the Board some appropriate action be taken against the club in the form of a fine, loss of competition and/or club championship points, ineligibility for final series, suspension, or withdrawal of that team from the competition. 18. REPLACEMENT/ SUBSTITUTION OF PLAYERS 18.1 A maximum of eight substitutions per team per match will be allowed for all teams Substitutions shall include any time one player substitutes another player, including for injury. Within the allowed eight player substitutions, there is no restriction on the number of times an individual player can be substituted or return to the field Exceptions (a) Substitution Blood (i) If a player has a blood injury and is temporarily replaced by another player that does NOT count as a substitution. (ii) If the blood player returns to the field of play within fifteen (15) minutes actual time and the temporary replacement leaves the field that does NOT count as a substitution. (iii) If the blood player does not return to the field of play within the permitted time, the replacement becomes permanent and that IS a substitution. The blood player is considered injured. (iv) Should a team use up its maximum number of substitutions while one of their players has been temporarily replaced for blood, and the blood player cannot return to the field within the permitted time, the temporary replacement will be required to leave the field at the conclusion of the permitted time i.e. the team plays one short. (b) Temporary Suspension Yellow Card (i) When a player is temporarily suspended (yellow card) and leaves the field of play that is NOT a substitution. 9 (c) Temporary Suspension Yellow Card Front Row Player (i) When a scrum is ordered during the temporary suspension of a front-row player (Player A), and as a result a player (Player B) is required to leave the field to allow another front-row player (Player C) to come on, that does NOT count as a substitution. (ii) If, at the end of the period of temporary suspension, Player A resumes and Player C leaves the field that does NOT count as a substitution. (iii) Player B returning to the field of play is also NOT a substitution. (iv) If, however, the team opts to leave Player C on at the end of the temporary suspension period instead of Player A returning, that IS a substitution (v) Player B returning to the field of play to substitute another player during the period of temporary suspension IS a substitution. (d) Send Off Red Card (i) When a player is sent from the field of play (red card) that is NOT a substitution. (e) Send Off Red Card Front Row Player (i) When a scrum is ordered after the sending off of a front-row player (Player A), and as a result a player (Player B) is required to leave the field to allow another front-row player (Player C) to come on, that does NOT count as a substitution. (ii) Player B returning to the field of play to substitute another player IS a substitution Any player substituted due to injury (except temporarily for blood) may not for any reason return to that match or any subsequent matches played on that day. At matches where there is no doctor available, the Referee remains responsible for establishing if a player is leaving the field of play due to being so injured that it would be unwise for him to continue playing After eight substitutions have been made, no other substitutions will be allowed for any reason, except for an injury to a front-row player where a suitably trained front-row replacement is available to ensure the game can continue with contested scrums. In this situation only, an additional substitution may be made.

19 18.6 Any substitute who takes the field immediately following the awarding of a penalty kick to his team or after a try has been scored shall not be permitted to kick at goal until after the relevant kick has been taken Contravention of any of the substitution Laws or rules will bring a fine of $100, without right of appeal, and/or possible loss of competition points See Section 3.4 of this manual for the Procedural Guidelines for substitutions. 19. TEMPORARY SUSPENSION (SIN BIN) 19.1 If a player is sent from the field as a temporary suspension he shall remain with his club s ground marshal for a period of ten minutes and shall not enter the playing area until permitted to do so by the referee The ten minutes suspension period will not include half time or any injury time The time period shall be kept by the ground marshal and the referee. The referee s opinion shall prevail The temporarily suspended player may not be replaced by another player except should the player be a front row forward. In this case the suspended player is to be replaced by a suitably trained replacement. The captain of the team will direct another of his players to leave the field for the duration of the suspension If such a replacement is not available and this team commits an error which leads to a scrum which it is consequently unable to contest, the opposing team will have the choice of either a free kick or an uncontested scrum. Uncontested scrums will be played when the team not capable of fielding a front row is awarded a scrum as per the laws of the game Under no circumstances shall the temporarily suspended player take the field until given permission by the referee The temporary suspension of a player shall be accurately reported on the NSWSRU result sheet. Failure to do so will incur an automatic $100 fine. A club found guilty of failing to report a temporary 10 suspension on the result sheet on the second occasion will be referred to the Judiciary and may be liable for a loss of competition points and any other fines or penalties as the Judiciary may see fit to impose Should a player incur three temporary suspensions during a season, including the finals series, he will be suspended without right of appeal for the next competition match. If that player incurs a fourth temporary suspension during a season he will be suspended without right of appeal for another competition match. If that player incurs further temporary suspensions during a season he will be suspended without right of appeal for another competition match and will also be required to attend the Judiciary, which may impose further penalties as it sees fit. If any such further penalty is imposed, that player will be deemed to have committed an established offence. It is the club s responsibility to ensure the player does not take the field if he is suspended under this rule A player who incurs two temporary suspensions in one match is deemed to have been sent off for the remainder of the match. Such a player will be dealt with under the early plea agreement or by the Judiciary. 20. JUDICIARY 20.1 The Judiciary shall deal with all protests, disputes, misconduct or other matters stipulated in the Union s Objects and Rules, these Competition Rules, the Code of Conduct or such items referred to it by the Board or the Executive Director The Judiciary shall meet each Wednesday at 6:00 PM, at the Union Office, Moore Park, unless otherwise notified, or as directed by the Board Players who are required to attend the Judiciary must produce photo identification and proof of registration. The matter will not be heard by the Judiciary unless photo identification is produced.

20 21. PLAYERS SENT OFF THE FIELD 21.1 Players sent off the field by the referee, and who are deemed to be eligible by the Executive Director for an early plea of guilty, can take the option of an automatic penalty and need not attend the Judiciary. (Refer Section 4.1) 21.2 Players sent off the field by the referee and who are not eligible for an early plea, or opt not to take an early plea, shall without further notice present themselves to the Judiciary not later than 6:00pm on the Wednesday following the match in which the player was sent off the field In the event that a player is unable to appear before the Judiciary an official of the player s club shall either: (a) notify the Union prior to Wed 4:00pm or, (b) appear before the Judiciary and furnish an explanation for the player not appearing, and with leave of the Judiciary (only granted in exceptional circumstances) respond on behalf of the player sent off the field, provided clear instructions have been given by such player either orally or in writing as to whether the player pleads guilty or not guilty to the offence and any explanation for such conduct alleged Any player sent off the field shall be suspended until such time as his case has been considered by the Judiciary or dealt with under the automatic penalty provisions of the early plea agreement Should a club member have an established offence recorded against him, his club will be fined $100 ($200 if the offence is abuse of a match official) without right of appeal, plus any other fines or penalties as the Judiciary may see fit to impose Should a player or an official of the player s club fail to appear or provide an explanation on or before Wed, the club shall be liable to a fine of $100 without right of appeal, plus any other fines or penalties as the Judiciary may see fit to impose If the player intends to plead not guilty a signed statutory declaration will be required from the player At the Judiciary hearing, if present the player sent off will be required to 11 respond to the charge. One club delegate may also respond to the charge on the player s behalf. The player may also respond through the presentation of objective evidence, which must be in the form of either an unedited video-recording of the incident or statutory declaration. A maximum of 4 statutory declarations may be presented in relation to each alleged offence In any case where the Judiciary or Appeals Tribunal is required to consider a send off, the Judiciary or Appeals Tribunal may review the referee s decision and the circumstances surrounding it. In any such case the Judiciary or Appeals Tribunal shall not make a finding contrary to the referee s decision unless it is comfortably satisfied that the referee s decision was wrong. 21A. LIMITATIONS ON RIGHT OF APPEAL 21A.1 No proceedings of the Judiciary shall be quashed or held invalid by reason only of any defect, irregularity, omission or other technicality provided there has been no miscarriage of justice. 22. TOLERABLE LEVELS OF ESTABLISHED OFFENCES 22.1 Each Club shall have the following tolerable level of established offences. An established offence is an offence that has been found proven after a club member has been sent off the field or cited: Seven Team Club 7 Six Team Club 6 Five Team Club 5 Four Team Club 4 Three Team Club 3 Two Team Club 2 One Team Club In determining the number of teams per club, a Halligan Cup team will not be included in the team count, although an established offence can be incurred in the Halligan Cup Once a club reaches its tolerable level of established offences a written warning & $50 fine will be sent to the club.

21 22.4 Fines will double for each further established offence above the tolerable level In addition to the progressive fine system, once a club has two established offences above the tolerable level, the club will be asked to meet with the Clubs, Competition and Rules Sub-Committee and will automatically lose one full round of competition points, including club championship points For any further established offences the club will be asked to show cause why it should remain in the competition. 23. MISCONDUCT OF MEMBERS, PLAYERS, OFFICIALS AND SPECTATORS OF AFFILIATED CLUBS 23.1 Any member, player, coach, official or spectator of a NSWSRU club deemed to have committed an act of misconduct or behaviour unacceptable to the NSWSRU shall be liable to be dealt with by the Judiciary or the Board as determined by the Executive Director. 24. APPEALS TRIBUNAL 24.1 The Appeals Tribunal shall deal with all Club or individual appeals arising from Judiciary decisions Any appeals must be made in writing and lodged with the appropriate appeal fee as determined by the Board with the Executive Director within seven days of the original decision The Appeals Tribunal shall meet within 14 days of receipt of the notice of appeal at a time and place as directed by the Executive Director. At this time a complete rehearing of the case shall take place Pending the rehearing of the case all decisions appealed against remain operative Appeals shall be conducted by way of a rehearing. Where any question of fact arises on an appeal before the Appeals Tribunal, it shall be determined by reference to the record of proceedings before the Judiciary provided the Appeals Tribunal in its discretion may rehear the whole or any part of the evidence given before the Judiciary as it considers appropriate The Appeals Tribunal shall have full discretionary power to hear and receive such further evidence on an appeal as it thinks fit provided it is established that such evidence was not, on reasonable inquiry, available at the time of the original hearing No proceedings of the Appeals Tribunal shall be quashed or held invalid by reason only of any defect, irregularity, omission or other technicality provided there has been no miscarriage of justice. 25. LODGING OF PROTESTS 25.1 All protests arising from competition matches shall be lodged in writing with the Executive Director by the club wishing to protest and affirmed by the honorary Secretary or President of the protesting club no later than 5:00 PM on the third business day following the date of the match from which the protest arises If the protest has been lodged by the club within the time allowed under rule 25.1 the protesting club must also within that time supply to the club being protested against a copy of the protest The Executive Director may extend the time for lodging a protest provided the Executive Director is satisfied there are exceptional grounds for doing so. The decision of the Executive Director to grant or refuse an extension of time shall be final and not subject to review Where the club protesting does not fulfil the above requirements, then that club shall have no further right of protest Any protest lodged within the time allowed under rule 25.1 or the time as extended under rule 25.3 will be forwarded to the Judiciary at its earliest convened meeting. 12

22 26. CITING BY CLUBS 26.1 When a club believes the conduct of an opposition club or club member is in breach of the laws of rugby or of the NSWSRU Competition rules then it may request that the opposition club or club member be cited to appear before the Union s Judiciary The NSWSRU citing process is as follows: a) The citing club must complete the Union s citing request form. (Refer Sect 4.2) b) The citing club must compile objective evidence. (Refer Section 4.2) c) The citing club must submit the citing request form and all objective evidence to the Union office no later than 5pm on the third business day following the match Upon receiving the citing request the Executive Director shall decide if it will proceed. If so, the citing process continues as follows: a) All citing documentation and details of the Judiciary hearing will be forwarded to the club involved as soon as possible. b) Upon receipt of the above information the cited club or cited person must respond within three business days - through a guilty plea, or if pleading not guilty, through the submission of objective evidence. Failure to respond within the required timeframe will incur an automatic suspension until such time as the citing is heard. (Refer Sect. 4.3) c) Representatives from both clubs, and the cited person, must be present at the Judiciary hearing. Failure of the cited person to appear will incur suspension until such time as the person does appear. Failure of the citing club to appear will incur a $100 fine. (Refer Section 4.2 & 4.3) 26.4 The Executive Director may extend the deadline for lodging and responding to a citing provided he is satisfied there are exceptional grounds for doing so. Such a decision shall be final and not subject to review In a citing, when the Judiciary or Appeals Tribunal considers an incident ruled on by the referee, it shall not make a contrary finding unless it is comfortably 13 satisfied the referee s decision was either inappropriate or wrong In a citing, when the Judiciary or Appeals Tribunal considers an incident not ruled on by the referee, it shall not impose any penalty unless it is comfortably satisfied that the allegation is proved A cited player can continue playing whilst the Judiciary determines a finding Should a club member have an established offence recorded against them after being cited the club will be fined $100 without right of appeal, plus any other fines or penalties as the Judiciary may see fit to impose If either party involved in the citing wishes to appeal the Judiciary s decision, the appeal will be heard by the Appeals Tribunal of the Union. Representatives from both clubs and the cited person must appear before the Appeals Tribunal for such an appeal. Failure of the cited party to appear before the Appeals Tribunal will cause the appeal to be dismissed and the appeal fee to be forfeited. Failure of the citing party to appear before the Appeals Tribunal will cause the appeal to be upheld. 27. CITING BY UNION OFFICIALS 27.1 Members of the Judiciary, members of the Union s Board, the Executive Director, members of the Union s staff, or match officials may at their discretion cite an affiliated club or club member on an alleged breach of the Laws of the Game, and/or Code of Conduct, and/or Competition Playing Rules A citing by any of the persons noted in Rule 27.1 can be carried out at any time The cited club or club member will be required to appear before the Judiciary, or if deemed necessary, before the Union s Board as directed by the Executive Director Citings by Union officials that proceed to the Judiciary will follow the same procedures as set down in rules 26.3(c) to 26.8 and in section 4.3, however rulings emanating from a citing dealt with by the Board are not appealable to the Appeals Tribunal.

23 28. DISQUALIFIED, UNQUALIFIED OR SUSPENDED PLAYERS 28.1 It shall be the responsibility of each club to ensure that no disqualified, unqualified or suspended person or team takes part in any match for it Where an opposing team or club believes that prior to the commencement of a match a team is in breach of rule 28.1, it shall be their responsibility to bring the matter to the attention of the opposing captain Where an opposing team or club believes there has been a breach of rule 28.1, it shall take appropriate action available in regard to protests after the match as detailed in rule A club found guilty of breaching rule 28.1 will be liable for loss of competition points, and/or suspension from the competition, and/or a fine A player found to be playing whilst suspended, disqualified or unqualified will be liable for a further suspension or expulsion from the competition Any disqualified or suspended person is banned from rugby in any match situation; including as a player, coach, manager, medical person, water runner, referee or touch judge during their period of disqualification or suspension. 29. ABANDONMENT OF MATCH 29.1 The referee may not start a match, or may call full-time at any time before a game s designated playing time has expired, in any of the following circumstances: (a) In the opinion of the referee, the treatment of or attention to an injured player may make it impossible for the match to continue to its allocated time because of subsequent safety reasons, lack of light, or the prevention of any subsequent matches being played for their allocated time. (b) The ground has become unplayable as determined by any authority, such as council, or due to its condition being considered, in the opinion of the referee, dangerous in the interests of player safety. (c) In the opinion of the referee, there has been a disruption that may jeopardise the continuing safe conduct of a match. (d) Consideration of rule 12.3, where a game is shortened to ensure the following game starts on time. (e) Any other reason covered by the Laws of the Game or the Union s Competition Playing Rules If a game is affected by the circumstances in 29.1, the following designations shall apply. These designations can be determined by the Union subsequent to the match regardless of any terminology used by the referee at the time. (a) If full-time is called during half-time or when the game is in the second half of the match, the result of the match stands. (b) If a match is not started, or full-time is called when the game is still in the first half of the match, the match shall be deemed abandoned There are 2 exceptions to rule 29.2: (a) In the case of 29.1(c), when disruption to a match has been deemed to have been caused by actions contrary to the Union s Competition and Playing Rules by one team or the other, or both, or by their officials and supporters, in which case the Union shall refer the matter to its Judiciary Committee for consideration and any necessary action. (b) In the case of 9.5, where regardless of how much of the game has been played, a team who is unable field at least 11 players at any stage during the match shall forfeit the match without right of appeal An abandoned match shall be replayed at a future time and place as agreed by both teams. If no agreement is reached, the match shall be replayed at a time and place designated by the Union (see rule 11). Should either team not elect to replay the match, the other team shall be deemed to have won on forfeit. 14

24 30. MATCH RESULTS AND TEAM LISTS 30.1 Official result sheets will be provided to each club Team lists shall be printed on the result sheet Match scores shall be recorded on the result sheet, signed by officials from both teams and the score verified and signed by the referee at the end of the game The carbon copy of the signed and completed result sheet must be provided to the opposition club at the end of the game Each club shall input their completed result sheet online no later than two working days after the match The host club shall advise the results of all matches to the answering service as soon as practicable after the finish of each round, but no later than 5:30PM on the day on which the round is played Failure to comply with any of the match result rules shall incur a $100 fine without appeal for each offence Should a club be found guilty of more than two breaches of the match result and team list rules, it shall become liable for a loss of competition points for the third and subsequent offences. 31. COLTS 31.1 Those players under 21 years of age on 1 January of the year of the competition, shall be eligible to play in a NSWSRU U 21 Colts competition Those players under 19 years of age on 1 January of the year of the competition, shall be eligible to play in the NSWSRU Colts U 19 competition. 32. SPECTATOR AND GROUND CONTROL 32.1 This rule should be read in conjunction with rule Where a fully enclosed playing arena is being used for a match, the host club shall ensure that the spectators remain outside the playing arena Where the playing arena is not fully enclosed, the host club shall provide ropes 15 or barriers for the control of spectators, erected a minimum distance of five metres from each touch line, or where not possible, as far from the touch line as practicable To ensure the effectiveness of ropes, clubs shall set supporting stakes on both sides of the playing field to avoid spectators encroaching onto the field of play Notwithstanding the requirements of the playing rules, home clubs shall ensure that, with the exception of three persons attending to the players on the field, all other persons including coaches, shall remain outside the playing area bounded by the ropes or enclosure. Such approved persons must wear the bibs provided. Team coaches are prohibited from being one of the three persons attending to players on the field The referee may elect to abandon or not start a match where the above criteria have not been met. In the event of such action taken by the referee, the host club shall be deemed to have forfeited the match Failure to comply with this rule will result in a fine of $100 for each offence, without right of appeal Each club shall be responsible for the control and behaviour of its players, members and club affiliates, and ensure they comply with the Union s Code of Conduct. 33. PLAYING UNIFORMS 33.1 It is the responsibility of each club to ensure that its players appear in its club s uniform, that is, jersey, shorts, long socks of the club colours, and boots or shoes Jerseys shall be numbered with no duplication of numbers on the playing field at any time Whenever a clash of colours occurs in a match the away club shall adopt suitable alternative jerseys. During a finals series match it shall be the team finishing lower on the competition table that shall adopt suitable alternative jerseys It shall be the duty of the opposing clubs and/or referees to report any infringement of these rules which will carry a fine of $100 for each occasion, without the right of appeal.

25 34. FOOTBALLS 34.1 It shall be the responsibility of the home Club to provide three serviceable match quality footballs for every match in progress The extra footballs shall be on each touch line for the duration of the match to avoid time loss when the match ball goes out of play It shall be the duty of opposing clubs and/or referees to report any infringement of rule 34, which will carry a fine of $100, without right of appeal for each infringement. 35. REPRESENTATIVE PLAYERS 35.1 If two opposing teams have a difference of two or more first grade players involved in the representative team, either as a player or reserve for a weekend fixture (including Fridays), then either club may apply to the Executive Director for its weekend first grade fixture to be rescheduled When a first grade fixture is rescheduled under this rule, each club involved will submit its proposed first grade team in advance to the Union for approval. Those players so approved as bona fide first grade players will be ineligible to play on the weekend in question Any player who makes themselves available for, and is selected in, the final 22 or 23 man playing squad and who subsequently becomes unavailable, will be ineligible to play for their club on the corresponding weekend. 36. FINALS SERIES 36.1 After the completion of the minor premiership rounds, the four highest placed teams on the competition table in each grade with respect to competition points will qualify for the finals series to determine the premiers of each grade At the conclusion of the minor premiership in each grade, major semi-finals shall be played between the first and second, and minor semi-finals shall be played between third and fourth placed teams in 16 each Cup, with the exception of the Halligan Cup competition In each Cup, a final shall be played between the loser of each major semi-final and the winner of the minor semi-final A grand final shall be played between the winner of the major semi-final and the winner of the final to determine the premier of each Cup Ties on competition points shall be resolved in the first instance in favour of the team with the greater number of wins. Should a tie remain it shall be broken in favour of the team with the least number of losses. Should a tie remain it shall be broken in favour of the highest positive difference between actual points scored for and points scored against. Should a tie remain, it shall be broken in favour of the team with the highest points scored for. If the tie remains unbroken, a play-off shall be conducted for major or minor semi-final place A player shall only be eligible to play in a semi-final, final or grand final if he has played in at least two minor premiership rounds for his club. In addition, a player shall not be eligible to play in a semi-final, final or grand final in any grade lower than the grade in which he has played the majority of his last seven minor premiership matches If a player does not qualify for a particular grade under rule 36.6, dispensation will be granted if the player has played two thirds of his season in the grade (or lower) in which he wishes to play If a club qualifies for the final series in consecutive grades on the same day, then open selection may apply within those grades. Open selection means the club can select its teams for the final series on merit provided: a) All selected players are registered as per the competition rules and; b) All selected sides are declared (subject to injury, judiciary hearings, etc.) to the Union office, no later than 12pm on the Tuesday before the semi-final, final or grand final and;

26 c) Once open selection is broken during the course of the finals, a player can continue to play in the grade he last started in, or higher. He may only be selected for a lower grade if he has played the majority of his last seven minor premiership matches in that lower grade as per rule For eligibility purposes, U21 Colts is considered to be equivalent to 3 rd Grade, except that for an U21 colt to be selected in a 4 th or 5 th grade team under open selection the club s U21 colts team must be playing on the same day If a player starts in two or more matches in the same day, the highest grade shall be considered his playing grade for that match. If a player acts only as a substitute or replacement in two or more matches in the same day, the highest grade shall be considered his playing grade for that match A player registered with the NSWSRU within four rounds of the end of the minor premiership of that competition shall not be eligible to play in a semi-final, final or grand final Requests for dispensation regarding eligibility for the final series shall be made in writing to the Union office prior to each match for which dispensation is sought Clubs shall have the right to appeal to the Clubs, Competition Playing Rules Sub-Committee in regard to any decision made by the Executive Director with respect to player dispensation. The appeal shall be lodged within twenty four hours of the decision being made Contravention of rules 36.6 to will bring expulsion from the finals series for the infringing player s team All clubs in the finals series shall complete a separate player eligibility list for each grade. All eligibility lists shall be submitted to reach the Executive Director by 12:00pm on the Tuesday prior to a semifinal, final or grand final match In a team for a semi final, final or grand final there must be sufficient front row players (i.e. 6 players) to play at hooker, tight-head prop and loose-head prop who are suitably trained and experienced to ensure 17 that on the first occasion that a replacement in each front row position is required, the team can continue to play safely with contested scrums. In the lowest grade in each division and colts there must be five players who can play in the front row to ensure that on the first occasion that a replacement hooker is required, and on the first occasion that a replacement prop forward is required, the team can continue to play safely with contested scrums. Contravention of this rule will bring an automatic forfeit In the event of a draw at the conclusion of allotted time: a) In semi-finals the team which finished highest on the competition ladder of the minor premiership shall be declared the winner. b) In finals the team which finished highest on the competition ladder of the minor premiership shall be declared the winner. c) In a grand final extra time shall be played consisting of two extra periods of ten minutes each. There shall be no interval between each extra time period. The teams shall play the first period of extra time in the opposite direction to that which they were playing at the end of the scheduled time. At the end of the first period of extra time the teams will again change playing ends. If the tie still remains then the teams shall be declared joint premiers If a finals match is abandoned (see Rule 29) the team which finished highest on the competition ladder of the minor premiership shall be declared the winner. If a grand final match is abandoned the teams shall be declared joint premiers Teams qualifying for the finals series shall provide for each match: a) One official to act as scrutineer for signing-on players for the match. b) Two match quality footballs at the time of registration, which shall be twenty minutes before the advertised kick-off time For each Finals series match the NSWSRU shall appoint a ground marshal Only registered NSWSRU players shall be eligible to play in the finals series.

27 36.22 All players participating in final series matches shall produce as proof of identity a current government issued identification document, clearly showing the player s name, date of birth and photo. No other form of photo identification will be accepted. The player s name and date of birth shall match those that appear on the official NSWSRU registration list as supplied by the Union office. Players who do not provide photo identification prior to a final series match must provide proof of identification to the Union Office no later than 12pm on the next business day. Failure to do so may result in the previous match being forfeited All clubs should check that all their registered players appear on the registered players list supplied by the Union during the course of the year. This is the responsibility of each club Each Colts player will be required to show photo identification with proof of age at all Colts matches during the Finals Series Injury time shall be played in all finals series matches Any player temporarily suspended will remain with the ground marshal who will keep the time. No player is permitted to return to the field until the referee has given the player permission to do so Fresh replacements may be used in all finals series matches subject to eligibility rule The replacement player shall report to the ground marshal Each club may have a maximum of three people responsible for attending to the players on the field. Team coaches are prohibited from being one of the three persons attending to players on the field. The three people attending to players on the field shall be allowed inside the roped enclosure but shall remain five metres back from the touchline, or where this is not possible, as far from the touchline as practicable, when not attending to players on the field. They must wear the coloured bibs supplied by the NSWSRU. All other persons, including coaches and reserves, shall remain outside the playing arena CONTRAVENTION OF PLAYING RULES 37.1 Contravention of any of the Competition Playing Rules will be dealt with by the Board, the Judiciary, the Appeals Tribunal, or the Union Staff, as may be appropriate. Clubs and/or individuals in contravention of these rules are liable to: a) be expelled or suspended from the Union and its competitions b) be fined and/or placed on a bond c) suffer loss of competition points d) suffer any other penalty that the Board or Judiciary may see fit to impose. 38. ALTERATION OF PLAYING RULES 38.1 The Board shall have the power to amend, alter or interpret these competition rules from time to time as necessary Changes or interpretations to the Competition Playing Rules shall be advised to all clubs in writing by the Union.

28 SECTION 3: MATCH DAY OPERATIONS & ARU POLICIES CONTENTS Page Number 3.1 Home Club Match Day Operations Field Set-Up Visiting Club Match Day Operations Rolling Substitutions Procedure Medical & Safety Recommendations 5 Management of Serious Injury 5 Serious Injury Protocol 6 Serious Injury Report 7 Management of Concussion Fractures & Bleeding Injuries 8 9 Dental & Soft Tissue Injuries 9 SmartRugby 10 Position Selection 10 Tackling 10 Mayday Call 11 Scrum Engagement 12 Elimination of Foul Play Preventing Injury 3.6 Senior Rugby Policy & Consent Forms Referee Assessment Sheet

29 3.1 Home Club Match Day Operations Home Clubs have many responsibilities on match day. Provided in this section is a checklist for Match Day Operations for Home Clubs: Field of Play: Lines properly marked, including 10m kick-off and 5m & 15m throw-in lines Hazards (sprinklers, cricket pitches) properly covered Flags, corner posts, goal post pads in place Field of Play roped off Facilities: Both change-rooms clean & tidy Sufficient hot water available Male & Female toilets available, clean and properly stocked First Aid: Stretcher readily accessible Ascertain ambulance access First Aid kit stocked and readily accessible Ice for injuries available to both clubs Doctor or qualified first-aid person in attendance Emergency contact numbers for nearest hospital, doctor, etc. Match Officials: Ground Marshal wearing red bib and accessible on sideline for all matches Accredited club Touch Judge provided for each match Recommended that a SmartRugby qualified club referee be on standby Referees welcomed & offered food, drink & invited to post-match function During the Match: Three match-quality footballs available at all times during all matches Three team runners only to enter Field Of Play (FOP). They must wear bibs. Coaches, managers & reserves behind rope Sin-binned players must leave the FOP and remain under the direct control of the Ground Marshal for the full 10 minutes Reserves only to enter FOP after reporting to TJ & referee signals his permission Team Manager: Accurately completes result sheet (incl. sin bins) Ensures only registered players take the field After the Match: Result sheets collected Ring in results by 5.30pm ( ) Results entered on-line by 5pm Tuesday Be Good Hosts: You must contact your opposition club in the week leading up to the match Provide a well stocked canteen throughout the day Invite the visiting team to your post-match function 2

30 3.2 Field Set-Up 5m 15m 5m 22m Half Way 10m Runners Rope Reserves Coach 3